System and method of forming a nanotube mesh structure

Abstract

A system for use in producing a nanotube mesh structure is provided. The system includes a first nanotube collection apparatus including a first substrate configured to collect a plurality of nanotubes substantially aligned in a first orientation on an attachment surface thereof, and a second nanotube collection apparatus including a second substrate configured to collect a plurality of nanotubes substantially aligned in a second orientation on an attachment surface thereof. The first and second nanotube collection apparatuses are configured to combine the pluralities of nanotubes at an interface. The system also includes a first energy source configured to direct energy towards the interface between the pluralities of nanotubes, wherein the energy is configured to join the pluralities of nanotubes to form the nanotube mesh structure.

Description

BACKGROUND[0001]The field of the present disclosure relates generally to nanotube technology and, more particularly, to systems and methods of forming a nanotube mesh structure.[0002]Carbon nanotubes are small tube-shaped structures fabricated essentially from single-atom thick sheets of graphene in tubular form. Generally, carbon nanotubes can be classified as either single-wall or multi-wall carbon nanotubes. Single-wall carbon nanotubes have only one cylindrical graphitic layer, and multi-wall carbon nanotubes have two or more nested cylindrical graphitic layers. Carbon nanotubes generally have a diameter less than about 100 nanometers and large aspect ratios such that a length of the nanotube is significantly greater than its diameter. For example, the length to diameter ratio of carbon nanotubes may be greater than about 1000 to 1. Moreover, carbon nanotubes have been shown to exhibit high strength, unique electrical properties, and to be efficient conductors of heat. Such feat...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

This patent describes a system, apparatus, and method for collecting and combining nanotubes to create a nanotube mesh structure. The system includes two substrates that collect nanotubes in different orientations, which are then combined at an interface. The energy source then joins the nanotubes at the interface to form the mesh structure. The method involves continuously directing a substrate through a bath of nanotubes, resulting in the nanotubes aligning in parallel orientation and coupling with the substrate. The technical effects of this patent include an efficient and effective way to collect and combine nanotubes to create a nanotube mesh structure with improved properties and performance.

Problems solved by technology

However, the use of carbon nanotubes in practical applications is generally limited by the small size of the carbon nanotubes.

The carbon nanotubes accumulated on the surface of the substrate are then joined to form a carbon nanotube mesh structure, or “buckypaper.” However, the size of carbon nanotube mesh structures formed in such processes is generally limited by the dimensions of the substrate and / or the bath of solution.

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